Many times in match situations I see aggressive players come
up against opponents with more of a defensive or pushing
type game. These aggressive players tend to lose focus on
their own game plans and let their opponent control the
point with deep baseline rallies. Hard hitters usually
react by going for too much too soon - exactly what the
counter punching pusher is hoping for. Others might have a
tendency to start playing that same pushing game when that
really is not their style.

A smart little tip that many players might find useful is to
remember to pull not push. Its kind of like going through a
door by trying to push when the sign says pull - you just
can't go. You might consider hitting short balls on purpose
to bring the pesky pusher into the net. This gets them out
of their comfort zone and forces them to play more of your
style. In addition, you will hopefully have room to lob over
their head once they are in the net. You can try this in the
middle of a rally or maybe on a return of serve but I would
suggest doing it on shots when you are well inside the
baseline. The key is to get this type of opponent to not
play the style that bugs you the most!

So the next time you are playing Thomas Muster don't worry.
Just relax, bring 'em to the net, and watch the fun begin.
You can turn those pushing matches into fun matches if you
remember to "pull not push."

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